Category: Moms

As younger adults many of us associated Christmas In July with bar crawls. As parents we associate it with a reminder that we have six months to clear the Christmas debt from last year. Oh how times have changed. If you’re me or if you’re reading this then you may be looking to create new memories with the kids on the 25th of July. I’ve always loved Christmas but seeing it through my children’s eyes has become one of my greatest joys. Celebrating in July means no pressure, no gifts, just FUN in the SUN.

I have a lightbox just like the one you can get here https://amzn.to/2LXeEop I truly use this for almost every occasion. It comes with 109 letters, symbols, and numbers. The possibilities are endless. I then brought out my Nostalgia Snow Cone Maker. https://amzn.to/2NWgHd3 and added some flare from both the Dollar Tree and my Christmas box in the attic.

You can make your own ice-cream bar or take home from Zoyo.

The cups used for the snow cones are actually meant for icecream and come in three packs at the Dollar Tree complete with plastic spoons.

I used Microsoft Word to create snowball labels and made sure to fill white water balloons to complete the “snowball” illusion.

Let’s face it, its not Christmas until Santa comes. Absolutely one of my top 5 favorite Amazon purchases. Get yours here https://amzn.to/2K5UWp1 My oldest son knew it was grandpa and my youngest toddler was just beyond amazed “WOW” he kept repeating. For $15 it served its purpose. Complete with beard, hat, suit, boot covers, and belt. Dad belly or pillow not included. We laughed SO hard and my son told me “Ill never forget grandpa wearing that suit”.

OK so maybe this is a little over the top but I really wouldn’t have it any other way.

Any Alice in Wonderland fans out there? I truly believe Disney World/Disney Land is Heaven on earth. It feels as if you step into a magical portal in an alternate universe anytime you are on Disney property and if Heaven had a price I’m sure it would be comparable to those of Disney Parks and Resorts.

For those of us who can’t always afford Heaven and live in Michigan I highly suggest visiting Birmingham’s ‘Mad Hatter Bistro.’ That portal I was speaking of exists on Old Woodward Avenue. Don’t be late for a very important date and make sure you make reservations! As they are highly recommended.

A small space with HUGE character. Every detail down to the doorknobs are magical.

There is dining available on the first level and downstairs or shall we say the rabbit hole. Tea parties, brunch/dinner with the family, or drinks at the bar make this a one stop shop for people of all ages.

Alice coloring sheets available for the kids.

The Alice themed menu produces fresh drinks, and entrees. The portions aren’t necessarily generous but the quality exceeded such. A bit pricey but you get what you pay for from the menu to the atmosphere. Still, cheaper than Disney World itself.

I couldn’t help but to feel happy and that wasn’t just from the freshly squeezed mimosa I was sipping on either. The Bistro’s food and decor captivates every customer to walk through the doors. As they say in ‘Alice In Wonderland’ “it would be so nice if something made sense for a change.” Mad Hatter Bistro makes sense. Make your dreams a reality and see where they’ll take you at The Mad Hatter Bistro in Birmingham Michigan.

The Rochester ‘Fire & Ice’ Festival brought out individuals of all ages. A festival that took advantage of the cold temps and showcased winter favorites. Ice carving demos, food trucks, fire pits, bands, fireworks, and even an ice skating rink were just some of the features for this weekend festival.

After the fireworks The Big Bright Light show was still shining for all festival goers to enjoy.

Mainstreet was covered in over a million lights and if that wasn’t enough the local business displays were just as breathtaking.

If you’re looking for a new tradition to share with your family in Southeast Michigan I highly recommend you follow the bright lights of Rochester Michigan during the holiday season.

In case you are not hip to the Wiggles they are an Australian Music group for children and have a series TV show featuring classics such as “Fruit Salad” and “Hot Potato” as some of the favorites. You will sing these songs with your child, in your car, at work, and in the shower. They seem to NEVER leave your mind. It’s a bittersweet relationship I have with this music group but my one year old is absolutely fascinated.

When it came to planning his FIRST Birthday party there was no question it was to be a Wiggles theme. I mentioned they’re out of Australia right? Well so is most of there merchandise. Product plus shipping just didn’t seem feasible yet I had to find a way, a Wiggles way.

Insert Pinterest ideas, Dollar Tree, and this amazing blog that produced free printables. You can find them here http://www.cakecrusadersblog.com/wiggles-happy-birthday-banner-make-free-printables/

A little effort went a long way and I was able to give my son his Wiggles Themed Birthday party on a budget!

The Michigan Science Center located in Detroit is a must do and see activity for families of all ages. It can be pricey but consider getting a membership if you have a large family as the ticket prices may pay for the membership itself in one visit. Also keep an eye out for Groupon specials. Theres always ways to save and a way to make it an affordable visit sometimes it just takes a bit of research.

With over 250 hands on exhibits, Imax Theatre, 4D Theatre, Smithsonian Spark Lab, and traveling exhibits there is always something to do, see, and learn.

Ok, so it may not be as great as up North but whats better than bringing a piece of the greatness that is the Mackinac bridge to Southern Detroit?

We spent a full day discovering, and learning. Many exhibits even featured the fine science that is what makes the motor city the MOTOR CITY.

Kids Town was a highlight of our trip as it is a miniature town built for children ages 2-5. Our big world becomes kid sized and lets the children explore, mimic, pretend, and utilize their motor skills.

The Detroit Science Center is always updating its exhibits and making learning fun. Take a day to get away from the video games, and explore. I love exploring this great city and all it has to offer. I also love being able to see it through not only my eyes but my children’s eyes.

Learning can be fun and everyday at The Detroit Science Center is just that.

Dr. Seuss’ ‘How The Grinch Stole Christmas’ is a story that has been around for decades. It is one that I enjoyed as a little girl and I can now enjoy with my kids! How special is that? The Big League Productions, Inc. and Running Subway presented the musical that rolled into Detroit’s Fox Theatre November 19th, 2017.

It was my first time attending a production at Fox Theatre. The theatre itself is rich in not only history but rich with Chinese and Hindu inspired décor. Seeing that décor dressed up with the holidays is something every Detroiter should see and experience. Such a beautiful place became even more beautiful for the holidays.

As beautiful as the theatre was the production taking place inside was equally stunning. A projection screen brought many backgrounds and backdrops to life making the audience feel that much more transformed to another world, Dr. Seuss’ world.

It was Philip Bryans second year starring as ‘The Grinch’. I can see why he was invited for a second year and surely expect him to return for many more. We’ve all seen the movie with Jim Carey and being able to emulate such a talent is not an easy task however I felt he brought the Grinch to life and did Jim Carey justice.

Cindy Lou was played by an alternating cast of Delilah Rose Pellow and Avery Sell. Little kids with big voices and huge hearts to convey the true spirit of Christmas just like Cindy Lou herself.

The dog (Old Max) played by Bob Lauder brought the entire story together and performed “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” rendition so good that I guarantee there weren’t many who left the show without singing that tune in their heads.

Dr. Suess’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical! made me feel like I was a kid again. The story of one being born with a heart two times too small and having it grow three times too big because of love and holiday cheer is something that every family should take away with them this year.

Family Four Pack available for Friday, December 1st. It is a critically acclaimed Broadway spectacle and it is coming to Fox Theater this holiday season. Like and Follow my page ‘Southeast Michigan Mommies.’ Sharing my giveaway post is HIGHLY appreciated tag 4 friends for an entry. Good Luck!